The Lou Review

In this special episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with two trailblazing women of Kentucky bourbon: Judy Hollis Jones, CEO of Buzzard’s Roost, and Melissa Rift, Master Taster at Old Forester. Together they hint at whats to come during the premium experience at the KBF 2025, “A Celebration of Women Leaders in Kentucky Bourbon,” a dynamic evening spotlighting the powerhouse women shaping the future of whiskey.

The 202...

In this episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Louisville entrepreneur Dee Dee Taylor, the powerhouse behind 502 Hemp, to discuss her path to opening a wellness-focused business rooted in advocacy, education, and healing. Dee Dee opens up about how her husband’s health challenges inspired her to explore alternative wellness options, ultimately leading her to launch a mission-driven local business.

Dee Dee has been ...

In this episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Isaiah Dietrich, co-founder of Jubilee Field with his wife Courtney.

Jubilee Field is a new venue space in Louisville’s Meriweather-Fort Hill neighborhood that’s all about building community, sparking joy, and making room for meaningful gatherings.

Isaiah shares the spontaneous and serendipitous journey that led to Jubilee Field’s creation—from his background in real es...

In this episode, host Rosa Hart sits down with Libby Gray, attorney and founding partner at Gray Ice Higdon, a Louisville-based law firm built on the principles of inclusion, collaboration, and community. Originally from Minnesota, Libby shares what led her to plant roots in Louisville and how her journey through law school and entrepreneurship shaped the vision for her firm.Together, they explore the vital role legal protection pl...

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Janelle Bass, co-owner of Ponyboy, a bourbon cocktail brand in a can. From her roots in voiceover work and bartending to co-founding Ponyboy with her husband Mike, Janelle shares the story of how their whirlwind romance turned into a business venture that’s redefining bourbon culture.Janelle opens up about the challenges and triumphs of creating canned cocktai...

In this episode of The Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Chef Michael Crouch, the celebrated chef at Watch Hill Proper, to explore his inspiring journey from a career in commercial art to becoming one of Louisville’s most creative culinary voices. Chef Crouch opens up about the challenges and rewards of the culinary profession, the importance of inspiration and creativity in avoiding burnout, and how food can be a p...

What do a brothel-themed bistro, big cats, and Japanese Sake have in common? Meet Kevin Grangier, the bold mind behind some of Louisville’s most innovative dining experiences.In this episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with local restaurateur and branding expert Kevin Grangier to explore his unique journey from marketing and consumer communication to launching standout Louisville restaurants like Village Anc...

🎧 Episode Show Notes – The Lou Review

Celebrating 75 Years of St. Matthews with Mayor Rick Tonini

In this special episode of The Lou Review, host Rosa Hart sits down with Mayor Rick Tonini of St. Matthews to celebrate the city’s incredible milestone—75 years since its incorporation! Mayor Tonini shares stories from St. Matthews’ rich past, highlights how the city has evolved, and gives listeners a preview of the exciting events plan...

Made possible by The Lou Review Foundation Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local businesses and nonprofits by amplifying their mission through storytelling.In this inspiring episode of The Lou Review Podcast, host Rosa Hart sits down with Denise Sears, President and CEO of SOS (Supplies Over Seas) — a Louisville-based nonprofit transforming surplus medical supplies into life-saving resources around the world and in our ow...

Ever wondered what it takes to run Kentucky’s FIRST no-kill animal rescue? 🐾 In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Jason Wetherington of the Animal Care Society—where every wagging tail has a fighting chance. From Derby-themed fashion shows to life-saving expansions, discover how this team is rewriting the future for homeless pets. Press play and fall in love with the mission!

Jason shares his journey from volunteer to exec...

In this episode of the Lou Review, host Rosa Hart interviews Joan Hale, co-founder of Necessary Comforts, a startup dedicated to providing comfort and dignity to patients recovering from surgeries.

Joan shares her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor and how her experiences inspired her to create a product that addresses the needs of patients with drains. The conversation explores the challenges of starting a business, the...

In this episode of the Lou Review podcast, host Rosa Hart interviews Eric Lindsey from the Kentucky Blood Center. They discuss the importance of blood donation, the processes involved, and the community impact of local blood banks. Eric explains the operational challenges faced by the Kentucky Blood Center, the need for continuous blood donations, and the various incentives offered to encourage people to donate. They also touch on ...

Tech startup founder Vanessa Omeokachie sits down with Rosa Hart to set the stage for the launch of TravBudd, an app designed to connect people based on shared interests for social activities.

Vanessa shares her journey from being a non-technical founder to launching her MVP, the challenges she faced, and the resources that helped her along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, flexibility in ...

"Living with food allergies and autoimmune diseases is like taming the allergy dragon," says Martha Morgan, owner of Allergy Dragon. She opens up to host Rosa Hart in this episode of The Lou Review podcast, and shares her journey of living with food allergies and autoimmune diseases. She discusses the challenges of finding safe and delicious food options, the importance of food labeling, and the need for more awareness a...

In this episode of the Lou Review podcast, meet Chef Dallas McGarity, owner of The Fat Lamb in Louisville. He discusses his journey in the restaurant industry, from his beginnings as a restaurant dishwasher to winning an episode of Chopped, to becoming a James Beard semifinalist this year. He shares his passion for community involvement, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and involving his children in community events...

Melanie Lopez, the owner of Bluegrass Bourbon Tours, shares what makes her company unique and the personalized experiences they offer. She emphasizes attention to detail and customization, such as providing special treats for birthdays, anniversaries, and bachelor parties. Melanie also discusses the additional stops and gifts they incorporate into their tours. She highlights the importance of customer reviews and the value she pla...

In this episode of the Lou Review podcast, Rosa Hart interviews Rachelle Wright about the multitude of adventures possible throughout Cave Country Trails in Kentucky. She highlights the Green River, which offers paddling and a waterfall accessible only by boat. These include Dutch Country Safari Park, Kentucky Down Under, and the Mammoth Cave National Park. Rachelle shares about the diverse trail options in the Mammoth Cave region,...